Reiss Nelson ‘fuming’ over Watford sub snub

Reiss Nelson was apparently seen throwing his bib to the ground in frustration when Jack Wilshere was chosen to get subbed on against Watford instead.

Nelson hasn’t made an appearance for Arsenal’s first team since the 2-1 defeat to Östersunds FK at Ashburton Grove on 22 February. And the frustration of not playing as regularly as he’d like appeared to get to him against Watford.

The 18-year-old reportedly threw his bib to the floor in anger after Arsene Wenger didn’t pick him to come on against the Hornets. Nelson had been warning up but the 68-year-old snubbed him. The boss chose Jack Wilshere instead.

Reiss Nelson just threw his bib to the ground and is fuming, doesn't seem to have taken not being brought on all that well. Got his coat back on as well so I guess he's not coming on.

The actions of the winger suggest he’s far from happy with sitting on the sidelines when he knows he’s got the talent to make a difference… or at the very least get game time.

The problem is, as James Benge wrote for the Evening Standard, the first team’s struggle to remain competitive this season means the youngsters are losing out on opportunities. Now, every game is a must-win for Wenger so he’s taking no chances in fielding his strongest side.

You could argue though that when Arsenal are 3-0 up against Watford, bringing Wilshere on is a bit pointless and the boss should have given Nelson a chance. I’m guessing that’s what the teenager was hoping anyway.

Nelson has until June 2019 on his Arsenal contract, whether he chooses to stay or not probably depends on his playing time between now and then.